HIV and photosensitivity

Jul 23, 2012

Hi Dr. Keith

My name is Philip and I write a blog here on theBody. I'm working on a post and I remember hearing/reading that being on antiretrovirals treatment makes you more susceptible to sunburns. I've had a hard time confirming this Is it true?

Would you consider emailing me directly about this?

felippedman@gmail.com

Thanks,
Philip D.

Response from Dr. Henry

There is a low rate of various HIV drugs (<5%) resulting in sun hypersensitivity. Not much published data on that or comparing regimens. Sulfa drugs (such as Bactrim/Septra) and some other antibiotics (like tetracyclines) have a higher rate of photosensitivity. Darunavir has a sulfa structure so that is a concern for patients with history of serious sulfa light reactions. KH

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